Donation will go to Smokies priorities

Friends of Great Smoky Mountains National Park was recently awarded $2,000 from Sustainability for Generations to Come, a Western North Carolina organization formed to support conservation efforts in the mountain region.

SFGC is a new Western North Carolina organization formed to support the preservation of open lands and conservation efforts in the mountain region. Partners include Tim Campbell of Dillsboro and Jeff Murphy of Waynesville.

“The initiative that SFGC has taken to bolster land conservation and stewardship efforts in our treasured mountains is commendable,” said Holly Demuth, Friends of the Smokies North Carolina Region Director. “Our Great Smoky Mountains greatly benefit from the generosity of individuals and business leaders who recognize the economic and environmental cornerstone the half million acre national treasure represents.”

The donation will help fund ongoing park initiatives such as the bear management, repairs to the historic Little Cataloochee Church, bringing schoolchildren on educational trips to the Park, and supporting the volunteer Elk Bugle Corps, who assist elk-watching visitors.